Using business card sized marketing messages paired with themed candy is a creative and highly approachable business development activity designed to spark conversations, reinforce brand messaging, and increase visibility in both branch and community settings. By matching a short, memorable message with a candy that reinforces the concept, teams can deliver marketing in a way that feels fun, personal, and non sales driven.

This approach works because it connects simple wordplay and familiar products to key financial messages, making them easier to remember. Pairing items like Smarties with “Make the Smart Choice” Payday candy bars with “Make Your Payday Sweeter,” or Lifesavers with “Extended Hours Can Be a Lifesaver” creates an instant association that captures attention and encourages engagement.

In practice, these message cards can be used during lobby interactions, business drop ins, community events, and outreach visits. They provide an easy way to start conversations, introduce services, and leave behind a positive impression that continues to reinforce the institution’s brand after the interaction ends. Because the activity is lightweight and repeatable, it can be used consistently across teams and campaigns.

Overall, this strategy turns small, thoughtful gestures into meaningful marketing touch points that build familiarity, strengthen relationships, and support ongoing business development efforts in a simple and memorable way.

Check out examples here.